We met during our senior year of college at Syracuse University when we were set up as blind dates at an event for Ellen's sorority. We had many mutual friends, but had never met. The evening unfolded as many college events do, with much merriment and plenty of dancing. And of course, a bit of intellectual conversation about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the state of Chicago Public Schools and appreciations of fine wine. As senior year progressed, we realized that this was something special. Although Ellen spent the following summer in Uganda before moving to North Carolina and Peter returned home to Chicago, we decided to take the risk and date long-distance.

After 2 years of traveling between Chicago and Chapel Hill, Ellen moved to Chicago in June 2016. North Carolina continued to hold a special place in our hearts and Peter planned the proposal around a surprise trip to Asheville, NC, one of our favorite cities. The morning of the proposal, Peter told Ellen to get ready and soon we were off to the airport. We flew to Asheville and headed to the Grove Park Inn. We arrived at the beautiful mountain resort and Peter proposed soon after. We celebrated with a drink on the famous stone terrace, which features views of the sunset over the Blue Ridge Mountains, and dinner at the resort's restaurant. The next day we hit our favorite Asheville spots - a biscuit-centric brunch restaurant and several breweries - before heading back to Chicago.

We can't wait to celebrate with you! The wedding will be at Crispin Hill, a former apple orchard turned wedding venue that overlooks beautiful Keuka Lake in Upstate New York. Ellen grew up nearby and spent summers visiting the Finger Lakes region, even attending Camp Cory, which is visible across the lake from Crispin Hill. We look forward to sharing this special place with you!